Hartlepool V Fleetwood Town at Victoria Park : Match Preview

23 August 2013 08:31

Hartlepool's two new signings Matty Dolan and Michael Duckworth are both expected to be included in the squad for the home game against Fleetwood.

Midfielder Dolan arrived on a month-long loan deal from Middlesbrough on Wednesday and Bradford Park Avenue defender Duckworth signed a permanent deal 24 hours later. Both players could start as Pools chase their first win.

Skipper Antony Sweeney remains sidelined with the calf injury that kept him out of last week's goalless draw at York, but manager Colin Cooper has no other selection problems.

Striker Steve Howard hopes to retain his place up front alongside James Poole after making his first start of the season last week.

Fleetwood are unsure if striker Jon Parkin will travel with the squad.

The veteran forward has yet to feature this season because of a calf strain and, while that injury is improving, he may not be fit enough to make the trip.

Other than Parkin, boss Graham Alexander should have a full compliment of players at his disposal.

Centre-back Ryan Cresswell is fit despite taking a knock to the head against Burton and midfielder Gareth Evans is considered to be over his foot injury.